The first wing, inevitably, houses a permanent exhibition on China, and temporary displays of other cultures (Islamic calligraphy at the moment).

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If you are a pious Muslim, let it be known that a focus on uncontroversial subjects such as Islamic architecture, calligraphy and poetry will keep the money coming.

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Bowler, a Thailand-based Australian, has run half a dozen of the tours in recent years, during which participants are taught the basics of Islamic practice, study Islamic history and calligraphy, pray in mosques and live and eat with Muslim families.

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